Address by the Chairman of the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee A.N. Kosinets to the internationalist soldiers on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the withdrawal of Soviet troops from Afghanistan
Dear soldiers-internationalists!
On February 15, we celebrate the Day of Remembrance of Soldiers-Internationalists and the 25th anniversary of the withdrawal of Soviet troops from Afghanistan.
Soldiers and officers honorably fulfilled their international duty, remaining true to their oath, often at the cost of their own lives.
32 thousand natives of Belarus went through the crucible of Afghanistan. Among them, soldiers and officers of the 103rd Vitebsk Guards Airborne Division, pilots of the 339th Aviation Regiment, helicopter crews, driver-mechanics, sappers, and medical personnel fought selflessly. 8 of them were awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union, hundreds were awarded combat orders and medals.
160 worthy sons of the Vitebsk land died in Afghanistan. Their names are immortal for us. About 800 participants of combat operations have passed away in the years since their return home. We will remember everyone who remained faithful to the Motherland and their military oath until the end.
Currently, more than 6 thousand participants of local wars and conflicts live in the region. Your close-knit brotherhood makes a significant contribution to the construction of sovereign Belarus and the implementation of socio-economic tasks facing the region. You pass on combat experience to the Armed Forces of the Republic of Belarus, engage in patriotic education of youth, and contribute to maintaining stability and harmony in society.
Thank you for your courage and resilience, and for your active and responsible civic stance.
I wish you, dear soldiers-internationalists, your families and loved ones, peace, happiness, health, well-being, and success in your work for the benefit of our native land!
Sincerely, Alexander KOSINETS, Chairman of the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee, Major General